Long-acting reversible contraception methods include the intrauterine device (IUD) and the birth control implant, the most effective forms of reversible birth control.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, fewer than 1 in 100 women using an IUD or implant will get pregnant, making LARC methods 20x more effective than pills, the patch, or the ring.
As with any birth control method, there are certain benefits and risks that accompany choosing an IUD or implant to prevent pregnancy.
An IUD is guided through the vagina, cervix and into the uterus by a trained healthcare professional. Before it is placed, he or she will review your medical history and perform a pelvic exam to ensure there are no complications.
The IUD has many benefits, including:
Problems stemming from an IUD usually occur during or shortly after insertion. These risks include:
An implant is placed just under the skin in the upper arm, which releases progestin into the body, stopping ovulation. Your healthcare professional will insert the implant into your arm after numbing the area. The procedure is brief and only takes a few minutes.
There are benefits to using an implant. These include:
There are very limited risks involved with implants. These include problems related to the insertion (or removal) of the implant, and issues that may arise from pregnancy while the implant is inserted. In the likelihood that you become pregnant, you will need to have the implant removed.
Because of the long-term nature of these birth control methods, choosing to receive a LARC may be a difficult decision. The trained staff at Sylacauga OB-GYN have experience with the various forms of female birth control and can walk you through the potential risks and benefits involved with each method, so you can feel confident you’re making a decision that’s right for you.